Viral video: IndiGo pilot refuses to fly flight, causing 5-hour delay; company issues statement

A viral video on social media showed an  IndiGo pilot refusing to fly the plane from Pune to Bengaluru, leading to a five-hour delay for flight 6E 361. 

The incident occurred on September 24 when the pilot cited reaching the limit of his duty hours.

The video posted on X showed that the flight to Bengaluru was delayed for five hours, and the pilot refused to operate it, stating that he had reached the limit of his duty hours.

In the viral video, passengers are gathered in the cabin and express frustration over the delay. In another video, they question the pilot for an explanation, but he does not respond and instead shuts the cockpit door. A woman in the background can be heard saying, “So this is how they close the door because they have no answer.”

Watch the viral video here

IndiGo's response to the viral video

As the video went viral on social media, the budget airline released a statement regarding the situation. 

The airline said, “Flight 6E 361, scheduled to operate from Pune to Bengaluru on September 24, 2024, was delayed due to operational reasons related to flight duty time limitations. Customers were kept informed about the delay and our team was available throughout the duration to assist customers. We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” as reported by various media reports.

Duty hour rules for pilots 

After the video circulated by the user, some users repsonded by slamming the airline.

However, an aviation expert, Sanjay Lazar, explained the situation, saying, “Do understand that Pilot & Crew duty time limits are set by regulators Worldwide - for the safety of the passengers. It’s not like a factory where workers can clock in & out when needed. The pilots CANT exceed their Duty limits as it invites penalty from the DGCA including implications for their license. Incidentally, unauthorised extensions of FDTL will also invalidate your flight insurance as an airline or as a flying passenger. So in the interests of flight safety, the pilot knows what he is doing, please let him be. He didn’t cause the delay!! [sic]”